During his inaugural visit to China as Germany's leader, Merz signaled a desire for more equitable economic relations between the two countries. His visit comes at a time when international landscapes have shifted significantly since his predecessor, Olaf Scholz, visited the country two years prior. The return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency has raised concerns regarding free global trade, particularly for Germany's export-driven economy, which is vulnerable to high tariffs imposed by the U.S.

Merz emphasized that reducing economic ties with China would be counterproductive, referring to it as a 'self-inflicted wound.' Recognizing China as the world's second-largest economy, he pointed out the rapid increase in the purchasing power of its population in recent decades as a crucial factor for Germany's trade strategy. This indicates a broader approach to diversifying Germany's trade partnerships amid rising tensions in global trade relations.

Following his discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Merz reiterated the need for fairness in trade and economic relations between Germany and China. There is a clear recognition from the German side that while fostering economic cooperation is crucial, it must be built on equitable terms that benefit both nations. This visit thus marks a strategic effort by Germany to navigate the complexities of its economic future in a volatile geopolitical environment.